Lexus IS430

2003 SEMA Show

BARRY WINFIELD

Nov 1, 2003

Looking to demonstrate the potential of the IS300 , Lexus commissioned Rod Millen Special Vehicles (RMSV) to build a one-off IS430 concept. "Fitting the 4.3-liter V-8 and six-speed manual transmission to the IS300 was fairly straightforward," said Millen. "The larger challenge was to develop an electronic interface that would allow the V-8 engine to work with the manual transmission and IS300 body—something it was never designed to do." The result is a car with about 340 horsepower and over 300 pound-feet of torque, at a vehicle weight not much heavier than the IS300 donor car. The potent V-8 engine was paired with a Getrag six-speed manual transmission and lightweight flywheel, which drive the rear wheels through a stronger limited-slip differential and GS430 driveline components. TEIN springs and 16-way electronically adjustable shock absorbers work with the original IS300 front suspension along with selected GS430 rear suspension components, helping cope with the higher torque of the 4.3-liter V-8. Michelin Sport Cup tires on 18-inch Speed Star SSR alloy wheels put the power to the ground. A GS430 radiator was fitted to provide ample cooling, while big, 14-inch Brembo brakes with vented, cross-drilled rotors and four-piston aluminum calipers handle the newfound speed.